Free resources for the classroom

What can stories tell us about the world views of various cultures? How can stories be used to preserve and share cultural traditions? What values and beliefs are communicated in Native American stories? This excerpt from the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage education kit Land and Native American Cultures uses tales from Native Americans throughout the Americas to explore these questions and more. To enhance the lesson, download Hopi tales read aloud by Jack Moyles here.PDF file size: 3mb

This digital version of Our Bahamian Heritage is an in-depth look at Bahamian arts and culture. It was co-produced with the Ministry of Education and Training of the Bahamas, and the Embassy of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The original kit used a cassette tape and VHS video, but the digital music files and video found here on Smithsonian Folkways can supplement these lessons.PDF file size: 206mb

This resource guide focuses on the history and culture of Maroon communities in Suriname, French Guiana, and Jamaica, and also the Seminole Maroon communities along the U.S.-Mexico border. It offers interdisciplinary activities that can be adapted for all ages, from kindergarten students to adults. Use it with Smithsonian Folkways music and video found here.